Middle East War: Iran Alleges 1,900 Civilian Deaths, 30 Universities Hit

Iran has accused the United States and Israel of coordinated attacks that have killed over 1,900 civilians and damaged key infrastructure, including universities, amid the ongoing conflict.

The claims were made on Saturday during a media briefing by the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, which also reported that at least 20,000 people have been injured in the strikes.

Iran’s Minister of Science, Hossein Simayi Sarraf, said the country’s educational sector has suffered significant damage, alleging that at least 30 universities were affected.

He described the attacks as a “crime against humanity,” accusing the attackers of targeting civilian and scientific institutions.

Infrastructure damage

Mr Sarraf said the destruction of academic institutions represents a major setback for Iran’s development, warning that the scale of damage could have long-term implications for education and research.

He further criticised the nature of the strikes, suggesting they go beyond military objectives.

Nuclear concerns

Iran’s Foreign Minister, Abbas Araghchi, raised alarm over repeated attacks on the Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant.

According to him, the facility has been targeted multiple times, increasing the risk of a potential nuclear disaster.

“Radioactive fallout will end life in GCC capitals, not Tehran,” he warned, referencing the Gulf Cooperation Council states.

Global criticism

Mr Araghchi also criticised Western nations, accusing them of double standards by contrasting the situation with global reactions to threats around Ukraine’s Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant.

He argued that continued strikes on Iran’s petrochemical and civilian infrastructure suggest broader objectives aimed at weakening the country’s economy.

Humanitarian organisations say the situation remains dire, with emergency responders struggling to manage the growing number of casualties amid sustained bombardments.

Efforts are ongoing to provide medical assistance and relief to affected populations.

The allegations highlight escalating tensions in the Middle East conflict, raising concerns over civilian casualties, damage to critical infrastructure, and the risk of a wider humanitarian and environmental crisis.